Police have released images of three women they want to speak to in connection with a distraction theft in a Great Harwood shop.

The trio walked into the ‘Hot Tips’ Nail and Beauty shop on Blackburn Road - which was undergoing refurbishment - at around 3pm on Sunday, August 19.

Police said one woman began speaking to the owner of the shop, who was inside carrying out the refurbishment work.

It is believed the other two women then took a number of items of clothing and a laptop and put them into large handbags before leaving the store and getting into a maroon/burgundy colour Ford Galaxy car.

Officers investigating the theft have released CCTV images of people they would like to speak to in connection with the incident and are appealing for anyone with any information to come forward.

PC Lee Richardson said: “If anyone recognises the women in the images or the description of the car, then I would ask them to come forward. Similarly, if anyone saw anything suspicious in or around the area on the day or has any other information they think could assist, then I would ask them to contact us.”

Anyone with information can contact PC Richardson by calling101 quoting log number 1338 of the 19 of August. Alternatively, information can be passed via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.